The participation of fire chiefs in the design of subdivisions in their communities is an essential component of an effective community risk reduction program. Every design should reflect the capabilities of the local fire service: firefighting staffing, response times, and
Housing affordability is a major issue across Canada. When considering this problem’s impact on buyers and weighing potential solutions, there are many aspects that should be considered. Too often, the costs of installed residential sprinklers are the low-hanging fruit that
Although we are all familiar with the lifesaving benefits of fire sprinklers, we do not spend too much time reviewing the reduction in injuries that these systems also provide. The advantages are many and injury reduction shouldn’t be overlooked. Several
Recent announcements from both the Canadian and U.S. governments have placed high importance on the need to increase the stock of affordable housing. In Canada, the Trudeau government has announced a further 4,500 units and $1.5 billion in funding. In
More than 80 percent of Canadian firefighters serve in volunteer departments. These highly trained and qualified professionals respond from unstaffed fire halls, at all times of the day and night, with travel times that vary with geography. You and your
In 2010, FM Global, the international insurer and fire research organization, released a study that highlighted the fact that residential fire sprinklers were an important element of green technology for modern homes. The study analyzed the results of full-scale burns
When you move into a home protected with home fire sprinklers, you may find that your sprinkler installer left valuable information about the care and maintenance of the system. This may include a placard attached to the riser or valve
In discussions with fire-service personnel and other people across Canada about home fire sprinklers, one consistent theme that emerges is the need for greater education to dispel the many myths and misconceptions. In the past, effective means to educate builders,
Determining adequate water supplies for fire fighting is essential prior to approval of projects. Under the National Building Code (NBC), all Part 3 buildings require separate verifications done for required fire flows. Part 9 buildings are addressed during subdivision planning.
New home designs combined with highly combustible contents have created a perfect storm of increased risk to occupants and firefighter sin the pas 20 years. Unprotected, pre-engineered floors fail more quickly in fire conditions. Modern contents have changed compartment-fire dynamics